Image Source: TERI

At the opening session of the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2025, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, addressed the role of India and the Global South in global climate action. The summit, organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), centered on the theme "Partnerships for Accelerating Sustainable Development and Climate Solutions."

The Role of the Global South in Climate Action

During his address, Minister Yadav emphasized the importance of the Global South in shaping the global climate agenda. He referred to India’s 7.93% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2020 as an example of the country's contribution to climate action. Yadav highlighted India's involvement in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), which are focused on promoting sustainability and addressing climate challenges.

He also noted that regions of the Global South, which face significant climate impacts, play a central role in offering solutions for sustainable development.

Focus on Climate Adaptation and Financing

Minister Yadav called for increased international collaboration on climate adaptation, emphasizing the need for more financial support to help vulnerable regions cope with climate change impacts. He referred to the UNEP Adaptation Gap Report, which outlines the need for scaling up adaptation efforts, particularly in regions most at risk from climate impacts.

He also discussed the importance of developed nations fulfilling their financial and technological commitments under the Paris Agreement to support global climate goals. Yadav called for efforts to strengthen Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to address both the challenges and opportunities in global climate action.

 Image Source: TERI